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Seasoned conversationalists are usually great storytellers and
can carry on a conversation about a wide range of topics. When
you’re knowledgeable and well-read, small talk can become more
than an opportunity to pass the time. Instead, it’s an easy way
to have interesting conversations with clients and colleagues.

If you’d like to take your networking ability to the next level,
set out to acquire a well-rounded repertoire of conversational
subjects. Read newspapers, books and magazines. Listen to
podcasts and TED talks. Sign up
for classes and attend cultural events. Travel to exotic
locations.

If you invest in personal development, you’ll stand out as an
entrepreneur who is intelligent, experienced and interesting.
Here are eight ways to learn a little about a lot in just a few
minutes a day.

1. Subscribe to a daily newspaper. You could
subscribe to your local paper or opt for a daily with national
distribution such as TheNew York Times or the
Wall Street Journal. If you would prefer not to have the
actual paper delivered to your home or office, most offer a
digital edition for a reduced subscription rate. Go online and
read newspapers from other parts of the world. When you travel,
pick up the local paper at the airport. It’s an opportunity to
spur conversation with clients, colleagues and friends.

2. Read for 20 minutes a day. As the saying
goes, "readers are leaders." Pick up one or two books on an
interesting subject you know very little about. Read fiction and
non-fiction. If you have a very busy schedule, or often become
distracted later in the day, read first thing in the morning or
over your lunch break.

3. Multi-task on your commute to work. Podcasts
and audiobooks can help you pass the time in traffic or on the
train — and teach you a little something at the same time.
Research which podcasts and audiobooks are available on the topic
you’d like to learn more about. Read reviews and download a few
to your smartphone. Even a short commute will give you enough
time to learn a couple new tidbits.

4. Listen and learn. You may be tempted to walk
away from a group conversation if it segues into a topic with
which you’re not familiar. Instead, stick around and listen. Ask
questions. Offer any insight you have based on your unique
experience and perspective.

5. Sign up for a class. Many municipalities
offer adult education classes in a variety of topics that range
from painting, creative writing to foreign languages. These
classes are typically small, inexpensive and will give you the
opportunity to explore an area of interest. If your city or
county doesn’t offer classes, contact your local community
college or university.

6. Attend local events. Chances are your area
has dozens of groups that regularly get together for social and
professional reasons. Most are focused on one thing: an industry
or profession, a particular culture or a shared interest. Sign up
and go when you have the chance. It’s an opportunity to make new
connections and learn something new.

7. Visit museums and cultural centers. Take
advantage of the historical and cultural exhibitions in your
area. Visit museums that focus on an area you know very little
about. If you have a particular question, most museums have
docents who are extremely knowledgeable and would be glad to
speak with you or give you a tour.

8. Venture outside your comfort zone. If you
consciously look for opportunities, there are thousands of ways
to meet new people and learn about new things. Take advantage of
the knowledge your neighbors, colleagues and acquaintances have
to offer. Ask questions and be curious. If a particular topic
piques your interest, reach out to an expert with a specific
question. The world is full of surprises; all you have to do is
keep your eyes open.